BMW M Division

BMW’s M-Sport division produces some of the best sports cars in the world. Founded in 1972, it produced its first car with an M badge in 1978, namely, the M1. The M3 has been in production for 34 years, though production was halted in 2018, with a new generation set to debut in 2021. The M4 has only been around for six years, a similar time period to the M2. Regardless of timelines, the BMW M division has produced both iconic and forward-thinking autos since its inception.

The typical M-Series BMW is known for its impressive power outputs and track performance in some cases, but there are a few constant elements amongst all of them. Luxury and high-power engines can be found in all BMW M cars, though these characteristics have both been vastly improved in newer products.

BMW M Models

There are quite a few BMW M models in the US, all of which share some similarities, but each version has a special quality that makes it stand out:

• M2 Coupe - Known as the “baby” M, the M2 is driven by the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo as the M4, but packs the in-line six into a more compact body. The punchy mill delivers 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque exclusively to the rear wheels, much to the joy of M-Class enthusiasts everywhere. Another pro for purists is that this is one of the few autos to still come with a manual transmission.
• M4 - The large coupe or convertible has been called a 2-door spin on the M3, which is essentially true, given that they share the same 425-hp motor and have a similar design. The M4 currently enjoys all of the sales regardless of preference between the two, given that the new M3 is only due in 2021.
• M5 Sedan - The M5 is among the new BMW M-Class sedans that now favor an all-wheel-drive system, much to the disappointment of purists everywhere. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 motor punches out a staggering 600 hp and 553 lb-ft, but it is worth remembering that those horses have a lot to pull. Still, the run from 0-60 miles per hour is accomplished in just 3.1 seconds.
• M8 - You can have one of these in 2-door, 4-door, or convertible guise. It is the pinnacle of the non-SUV M-range, if the sleek styling doesn’t show that, its price tag will.
• X3 M - The compact go-fast SUV marks the beginning of the family-suitable performance lineup from the Bavarian automaker. This is one of the best BMW M Series cars if sales volumes are anything to go by.
• X4 M - A direct challenge for the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63, the X4 m is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter that punches out 473 hp and 442 lb-ft. It is not particularly practical, but it is eager off the line.
• X5 M - Even meaner than the X4 and far more practical, the X5 M cranks out 600 horses and has all the cargo space you’d expect from a regular high-rider.
• X6 M - As BMW’s most expensive sport-focused high-rider, the family hauler has every bit of luxury that you would expect from a six-figure high-rider with the white, blue, and red badge. The V8 gets this vehicle to 60 miles per hour from a standstill in just 3.8 seconds.

Body Types of M-Series BMWs

The German automaker knows that a good recipe for success is to offer its products in a host of different shapes and sizes, the more the merrier:

• Coupe - This is the most common shape that these M-spec vehicles come in, presumably for a more attractive exterior style.
• Sedan - This is the second-most popular body style found in the group, these are more practical and the four-door configuration these autos offer is more useful for those who value practicality.
• Convertible - Luckily for fans of open-air driving experiences, the range not only allows for the traditional drop-top that simply takes an existing spec and gives it a removable roof but true roadsters as well.
• SUV - The idea of a family-appropriate hauler going from 0-60 mph in under four seconds was once a ludicrous concept, but the German automaker has embraced the notion and brought us a selection of go-fast haulers that truly impress.

Characteristics of BMW M-Sport cars

While there are a few differences between the specs, there are quite a few notable similarities that all of them lay claim to:

• Powerful engines - The outputs of every single auto on the list are impressive, regardless of whether you opt for a compact variant or a crossover.
• Luxurious interiors - Grand cabins are guaranteed with these vehicles. Premium upholstery can be had in an array of various colors and there are multiple accessories available to further customize the inside.
• Price - Something they all have in common is a high MSRP, you aren’t going to get your hands on a BMW M-Series at a price that is affordable any time soon. Of course, certain versions cost a lot less than others, but even entry-level specs cost a pretty penny.

What to Consider Before Buying

Often, the best have their downsides, and this range is no different. Still, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages:

Pros

• Extremely powerful
• Sporty handling
• Good fuel economy when compared to rivals
• Cabins are loaded with modern tech
• Plush and premium interiors

Cons

• High capital outlay
• Expensive to maintain
• Pricey additional packages

Prices of M-Series cars

These autos are on the premium side of the spectrum, and their MSRPs suggest as much:

FAQs